Puzzle. (open access)

Puzzle.

Patent for a simply constructed puzzle with a difficult solution, "but may be accomplished by the exercise of care, skill, and ingenuity in the manipulation of the device" (lines 15-18). It is a rectangular box with eight balls, four of which fit into holes in the corners of the box. There are segmented walls surrounding the holes.
Date: January 5, 1897
Creator: Collis, Michael Francis
System: The Portal to Texas History
Nut-Lock. (open access)

Nut-Lock.

Patent for nut-locks specifically adapted for use on railroads. Includes instructions and illustrations.
Date: February 16, 1897
Creator: Reilly, George
System: The Portal to Texas History
Sack-Tie. (open access)

Sack-Tie.

Patent for sack-ties that consist of a brace with a wire that folds in with the upper edges of the mouth of the sack and hold it into position, by hooking around the ends of the brace.
Date: April 27, 1897
Creator: Driffill, Frederick
System: The Portal to Texas History